Albert Einstein did not serve in the military during World War I. There is a common misconception that he did, but it is not accurate. There are several reasons why Einstein did not serve in the war.
Firstly, it's important to note that Einstein was a Swiss citizen, not a German citizen. He was living in Switzerland at the outbreak of the war and had Swiss citizenship since 1901. Switzerland maintained a policy of neutrality during World War I, and as a Swiss citizen, Einstein was not obligated to serve in the military.
Secondly, Einstein's scientific work and academic career played a significant role in why he was not enlisted. By 1914, Einstein had already made notable contributions to physics and was recognized within the scientific community. He held a position at the Prussian Academy of Sciences in Berlin, which provided him with an exemption from military service.
It's worth mentioning that Einstein was sympathetic to the pacifist movement and expressed his opposition to war. He signed the "Manifesto to Europeans" in 1914, along with other prominent intellectuals, advocating for peace and an end to the war. However, his reasons for not serving were primarily related to his Swiss citizenship and academic position rather than personal beliefs.
Overall, Einstein's age and fame did not directly factor into his decision not to serve in the military during World War I. Instead, it was primarily due to his Swiss citizenship and his exempt status as a scientist.